Our journey to getting a wheelchair-accessible vehicle started in 2024 when I purchased our Kia Carnival, and in August 2026, after a long journey, we finally received our completed accessible vehicle.
Our Kia Carnival KA4 was modified by Freedom Motors with a rear wheelchair-accessible conversion, drop-down ramp and six-point wheelchair restraint system, allowing my son Malachi to travel comfortably and safely in his wheelchair.
Freedom Motors was recommended to us by one of Malachi’s therapists, and I am so glad we followed their recommendation.
Before having our accessible car, getting around was incredibly difficult. We relied on taxi rides, and later we had to use a trailer on the back of our car to transport Malachi’s wheelchair. It was hard on the car, hard on me and, most importantly, hard on Malachi. Even something as simple as getting to school or heading out together as a family required so much extra planning.
As a solo mum, organising such a major vehicle modification could have been overwhelming, but the communication and support I received from Freedom Motors made such a difference.
Brooke was absolutely amazing throughout the process. She talked me through everything, made sure I understood what was happening and kept me updated every step of the way. I never felt like I was left wondering what was happening or what I needed to do next. Having someone take the time to explain everything clearly made the whole experience so much easier and less stressful.
The day we finally received our Carnival is something I will never forget. One of the first things Malachi said when he was in the car was:
“I’m right next to you, Mummy.” 💙
That moment meant everything to me and really summed up why we had worked so hard to get this vehicle.
Since getting our Carnival, everyday life has changed so much. School drop-offs and pick-ups now run smoothly, and the rear ramp makes getting Malachi and his wheelchair in and out of the vehicle so much easier. Community access is easier, and we can enjoy more family outings throughout the different seasons because we can park undercover and get Malachi in and out without worrying as much about the weather.
One of the things Malachi loves most is that this is our own family car. His puppies, Cash and Tank, can come along for school drop-offs and pick-ups, which he absolutely loves. He is much more comfortable travelling, and he is incredibly proud of his new car — he loves showing it off to everyone!
For me, the Carnival is super easy to drive, and the wheelchair conversion and ramp have made such a difference to our everyday life. Things that used to require so much planning are now simple. We can get in the car and go.
This vehicle has given Malachi greater comfort and accessibility, but it has also given our whole family something incredibly valuable — more freedom, independence and opportunities to make memories together.
I would 10/10 recommend Freedom Motors Australia to other families considering a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. From the quality and ease of using the conversion to the incredible communication and support we received throughout the process, our experience has been fantastic.
A huge thank you to Brooke and the Freedom Motors team for helping make this possible for Malachi and our family. This is so much more than just a car to us — it has genuinely changed our everyday life. 💙
